The deadly blast is believed to have been caused by a buildup of methane gas inside the mine, according to officials.

Government mine inspector Ghani Baloch said the explosion damaged two mines located close to each other. Rescue teams, emergency responders and disaster management officials rushed to the site to search for trapped workers and recover bodies.

Initially, seven bodies were pulled out from the mine. Later, rescuers recovered 25 more bodies, taking the death toll to at least 32. Officials warned that the number of casualties could rise further as rescue operations continue.

How did the deadly coal mine explosion happen?

Officials suspect that methane gas accumulation inside the mine triggered the powerful blast. Methane explosions are considered among the biggest dangers in underground mining as they can quickly consume oxygen and make survival extremely difficult.

Ghani Baloch said the chances of finding survivors become very low after methane explosions because oxygen levels inside the mine can drop to zero. He added that rescue workers were moving carefully due to the dangerous conditions inside the mine.

Balochistan's Mines and Minerals Minister Shoaib Nosherwani said rescue teams were facing extremely difficult circumstances while trying to reach trapped miners. He also expressed condolences to the families of those killed in the tragedy.

Why are coal mine accidents common in Balochistan?

Coal mining accidents are frequent in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, where many mines reportedly lack proper safety measures, ventilation systems and equipment to monitor dangerous gases.

The Pakistan Central Mines Labour Federation has blamed possible negligence for the explosion and demanded strict action against those responsible. The labour union has urged authorities to ensure stronger enforcement of mine safety rules and take action against companies violating safety regulations.